Overnight Oats with Berries and Banana

Overnight Oats with Berries and Banana

This recipe is designed to be easily adaptable to your taste preferences.

Yields: 1 serving Prep time: 5-10 minutes (plus overnight chilling)

Ingredients:

• For the Overnight Oats:

  • 1/2 cup rolled oats (old-fashioned oats)
  • 1 tablespoon chia seeds (for extra thickening and nutrients)
  • 3/4 cup milk (dairy or non-dairy like almond, soy, oat, or coconut milk)
  • 1-2 teaspoons sweetener of choice (maple syrup, honey, agave nectar, or stevia, to taste)
  • 1/4 teaspoon vanilla extract (optional, but recommended for flavor)
  • Pinch of salt (enhances flavor)

• For the Toppings (as seen in the image):

  • 1/2 cup sliced strawberries
  • 1/4 cup fresh blueberries
  • 1/2 small banana, sliced
  • 1-2 tablespoons chopped peanuts or other nuts (pecans, almonds, walnuts) – Note: The image appears to show pine nuts or a similar light-colored nut, but peanuts are a common and delicious alternative.

Equipment:

• Jar or container with a lid (like a mason jar or a tall glass as shown in the picture)
• Spoon for mixing

Instructions:

1. Combine Oat Ingredients: In your jar or container, combine the rolled oats, chia seeds, milk, sweetener, vanilla extract (if using), and a pinch of salt.
2. Mix Well: Stir everything thoroughly until the oats and chia seeds are well combined and no dry spots remain. Make sure to scrape the bottom and sides to ensure everything is incorporated.
3. Chill Overnight: Cover the jar with a lid and refrigerate for at least 4 hours, or preferably overnight (8 hours or more). This allows the oats and chia seeds to soften and absorb the liquid, creating a creamy consistency.
4. Assemble with Toppings: In the morning, give the overnight oats a quick stir. If it’s too thick, you can add a splash more milk to reach your desired consistency.
   • Layer in your toppings as desired. The image shows:
     • A layer of sliced strawberries on top of the oats.
     • Then a sprinkle of blueberries and chopped nuts.
     • Finally, sliced banana on top.
5. Enjoy! Serve immediately and enjoy your nutritious and delicious breakfast!

Tips and Variations:

• Consistency: If you prefer thicker oats, add a bit more chia seeds or use slightly less milk. For thinner oats, add more milk.
• Sweetness: Adjust the amount of sweetener to your preference. You can also use ripe mashed banana for natural sweetness.
• Other Fruits: Feel free to substitute or add other fruits like raspberries, blackberries, mango, kiwi, or peaches.
• Protein Boost: Add a scoop of protein powder (mix it in with the wet ingredients before chilling) for an extra protein boost.
• Nut Butters: Swirl in a tablespoon of peanut butter, almond butter, or cashew butter for added flavor and healthy fats.
• Spices: Add a pinch of cinnamon, nutmeg, or cardamom for extra warmth and flavor.
• Meal Prep: You can prepare a few jars at the beginning of the week for quick and easy breakfasts throughout the week. They typically last 3-4 days in the refrigerator.

Enjoy your homemade overnight oats!